The elections are closely connected to the political process to promote natio...

The elections are closely connected to the political process to promote national reconciliation under Afghan leadership and ownership. We welcome the recent encouraging developments, including the more constructive attitude in the relationship between Afghanistan and Pakistan. Successful national reconciliation, based on the shared principles of the Afghan Government and the international community, could be a milestone towards ensuring peace and prosperity as long as it is not accompanied by reversals in civil liberties, human rights and the democratic achievements. To avoid such a development, due consideration must be given to the concerns of women and civil society.